Michael Cheika returns to Waratahs more than a decade after title triumph

Michael Cheika has been unveiled as the NSW Waratahs head coach ahead of the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, more than a decade after leading the side to its maiden championship title back in 2014.

Cheika will officially step back into the top role at the Tahs this November, committing to next season with an option for 2028. The former World Rugby Coach of the Year returns to the club with an extensive coaching CV that has spanned multiple countries and a couple of sports.

The 59-year-old famously led the Waratahs to its first Super Rugby title 12 years ago, with Bernard Foley slotting a late penalty in a win over the Crusaders in Sydney. Foley will be back in cambridge blue next season, with former Wallaby Nick Phipps also signing on.

Cheika coached the Wallabies to the 2015 Rugby World Cup Final and stayed in that position for another four years. The coach has also spent time abroad with Leinster, Stade Francais, Leicester Tigers, Green Rockets Tokatsu and the Argentina national team.

The Sydney Roosters have expressed their support for Cheika, who is currently part of the NRL side’s coaching staff. Cheika works under head coach Trent Robinson at the Tricolours, who currently sit in first place on the NRL ladder.

“The NSW Waratahs have always occupied a special place for me – it’s my home state and I feel ready to return as their Head Coach ahead of an important year for the Waratahs and also for Australian Rugby in the lead up to the home Rugby World Cup,” Cheika said.

“Being involved in the NSW squad that lifted the Super Rugby trophy in 2014 is something I will never forget, especially the passion and energy of our supporters. This is a new time, a different time and I am looking forward to being able to enjoy those same kinds of feelings and more with players, their families and all the fans in this new adventure.

“I really would like to share all the experiences I have been lucky enough to gain since I was last here and make this a great place to play footy.

“Before all of that I want to give my all to my rugby league club, the Sydney Roosters, to help achieve our goal for this season, to pay them back for the trust and belief they have always shown in me.”

NSW Waratahs Director of Performance, B-J Mather, added: “Michael is a proven leader with an exceptional record across many years building and preparing teams to compete on rugby’s biggest stages.

“His coaching achievements speak for themselves but equally important is his sincere passion for our club and what it represents.

“We believe Michael is the right person to now lead the next chapter for the Waratahs and we are delighted to welcome him home.”